Bright Lights, My City

Visit Popbar for Guilt-Free Desserts in the West Village

2012-03-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

After indulging in Valentine’s Day sweets at Popbar with your best girlfriends and main squeeze, your favorite West Village gelato and sorbetto icy pop shop has released nutritional stats to put your calorie counting mind at ease. What city girl doesn’t stress over almost every bite she puts in her mouth?

With Spring Fever right around the corner, you’ll be looking for a cool treat to get you through the warmer months, while still buttoning your skinny jeans and feeling sexy in your bikini during your summer in the Hamptons. All of the popSorbettos are between 69-79 calories, popGelatos are between 149-198 calories and YogurtPops are only 100 calories.

There are even vitamins and nutrients found in these little dessert gems! A melon PopSorbetto has Vitamin A & C, Hazelnut popGelato is an ideal source of Calcium & Protein and you’ll find dietary fiber in Strawberry PopSorbetto.

Popbars have no artificial ingredients, no preservatives and are free from high fructose corn syrup. All of their bars are made with real fruit fresh daily, with options available for vegan and gluten-free customers too. This commitment to developing a healthy and delicious dessert using only the freshest ingredients is reflected in the newly released nutritional data.

Visit their website to find out more nutrient rich data on all flavors. Stay slim and trim this summer and still satisfy your sweet cravings with Popbar! xo

Popbar. 5 Carmine Street.

Catch Brings More Than Seafood to MPD

2012-03-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes downtown New Yorkers forget that the Meatpacking District isn’t only about late-night clubs filled with the bridge and tunnel crowd. There are cool nightlife spots like LeBain, nearby Chelsea Market for shopping and long dinner and brunch waits at Pastis. This fall, Catch, a tri-level seafood restaurant, opened in MPD by a Top Chef titleholder, Hung Huynh, bringing more than fresh fish to the neighborhood.

This seafood palace is perfect for a night out with your girlfriends when celebrating a birthday or bachelorette and for a date with a guy who doesn’t mind shelling out a decent amount of cash on the meal. Catch may not be the most expensive seafood restaurant in the city, but those shared plates and cocktails will add up fast!

Start things off at the first-level raw bar, then settle in at the upstairs kitchenside chef’s table for a dinner of shared appetizers, healthy plates, and gourmet desserts.

Standout starters include Crunchy Rice Cakes (tuna tartare, wasabi, tobiko) for a crunchy base topped with tender raw tuna. The Scallop Dumplings (with shrimp, caviar-vichyssoise) are a seafood take on the traditional pork.

Cheese lovers shouldn't skip Macaroni & Lobster Cream (mascarpone, breadcrumbs) for an indulgent creamy taste. The Crispy Shrimp (spicy mayo) offers a lightly battered sweet and spicy bite.

For dinner, even your health-conscious friends will rejoice with a list of “Simply Cooked” options, including Seared Tuna, Grilled Mahi Mahi and Salmon a la Plancha. If everyone has the same taste, “Big Fish” are offered, such as the $72 Crispy Whole Snapper to share as a couple or among a few friends.

The talents of Pastry Chef Thiago Silva will remind you to leave room for dessert. From the Peanut Butter Cup Soufflé to the plate of gourmet cookies, your sweet tooth will be satisfied.

After filling up on dinner, head to the glass penthouse on the roof for a lounge-like space with reflective gold brick, leather banquettes and possibly a bit of dancing and debauchery.

Catch. 21 Ninth Ave.

How to Avoid a Modest Brag

2012-02-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

We may all be guilty of being a humble bragger, perhaps without even knowing it. You have good news to share or recently received a compliment that made you feel like a million bucks, so you try to brag while still appearing to be modest. A “modest brag” is committed when telling someone what someone else said about you or by complaining to mask your brag. Your Facebook feed is filled with humble brags. Avoid these common modest brags to keep your friends from rolling their eyes.

(image via)

The Beaming Bride. “I can’t believe I have to go back for another fitting because my gown is still too big.” This soon-to-be-Mrs. pretends to complain, so she won’t seem insensitive sharing with her still-single bridesmaids that she is losing so much weight before her big day.

The Scholar. “My professor claimed my thesis was one of the best she has ever read. I was shocked because I barely put in enough research.” Showing off a celebrated accomplishment by pretending no effort was put in to receive accolades is all too common with a smarty-pants.

The Fitness Fiend. “Ugh. I am SO sore from the gym. My trainer really kicked my ass. He is so expensive, but it’s so worth it.” This girl may brag about her hot new figure and the fact that she can afford the luxury of a personal trainer, while covering it up with a complaint that her muscles ache.

The Macho Man. “I’m about to pass out from shoveling out everyone on our block, but it was well worth seeing the smiles on their faces.” Yes, even men can commit a modest brag.

The A-List Apartment. “I do have to stay on a budget, but I guess it’s worth it having such a large walk-in closet in my Soho one bedroom.” Apartment envy in New York City is oh-so-common. Residents with luxuries - from 24-hour doormen to a private roof deck - play down other aspects when talking about their amazing rental space.

The Boasting Beauty. "I didn't put on any makeup today and my dress is so wrinkled. I don't get why I keep getting hit on." Yes, we get that you're pretty.

The World Traveler. “I’m exhausted from my two week vacation in Greece. I need a vacation from my vacation.” No matter how this is said, everyone around this frequent vacationer will be envious of this type of modest brag (which feels much more like a regular 'ole brag).

Are you guilty of being a modest bragger? xo

Free Screening of 'BOY' & Dance Party Tonight At Knitting Factory

2012-02-28T10:42:00.000-05:00

Skip your ordinary Tuesday night of sushi takeout and spin class to head to the Knitting Factory in Williamsburg tonight for a fun weeknight out. A free screening of the new movie BOY (which will open in NYC this Friday) will begin at 8 PM, followed by a Michael Jackson dance party in the front bar at 10 PM.

BOY was written and directed by Oscar nominee Taika Waititi (Flight of the Conchords, Eagle vs Shark) who also stars in the film. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2010, where it was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize. It since has done well in New Zealand, where it was released to much acclaim. It will get an American release on March 2, but you'll be able to see it a bit sooner than that (and for free) tonight!

You can RSVP on Facebook and learn more on BrooklynVegan. Get cultured tonight with an international comedic film and dance the night away to MJ xo

Blogger of the Week at Butter Lane Cupcakes

2012-02-27T11:19:00.001-05:00

Cupcakes have been all the rage for satisfying the sweet tooth of New Yorkers since Carrie Bradshaw and her ladies indulged in Magnolia. Since the days of Sex and the City, cupcake bakeries have popped up all over the city.

Butter Lane, an East Village favorite, offering Cupcake 101 Class and serving a variety of seasonal frosting flavors, announced yours truly as the Blogger of the Week!

I was honored with my blog listed on their Facebook page and on a board in their shop (yes, it was a bit smudged by the time I arrived, but I was flattered nonetheless).

When I stopped by this weekend, I was gifted with cupcakes of my choice, to the delight of my roommates and boyfriend.

(My favorite flavors included Chocolate Sea Salt on a chocolate cupcake, Cinnamon and Honey on a vanilla cupcake, Peanut Butter on a chocolate cupcake and Peanut Butter on a banana cupcake)

Thanks to Butter Lane for the blogger praise! xo

Frank's Sauce Restaurant in the Lower East Side

2012-02-24T14:13:00.000-05:00

The Frank Restaurants are East Village favorites for delicious Italian meals just like your "nonna" used to make, at an affordable price. From the crispy thin crust pizzas at Little Frankie’s to Supper’s daily risotto specials and Frank’s tender seared salmon for under $20, there is something for everyone at Frank Prisinzano’s cozy restaurants.

Sauce Restaurant is the newest addition to this sisterhood of Italian Restaurants, offering brunch and dinner to delight Lower East Side foodies. Whether it is the silverware chandeliers, displayed butcher shop meat case, East Village Radio-selected rockin’ music, or the old-school chalkboards displaying handwritten house specialties, the familiar Frank charm is all over Sauce.

The pastas are homemade and prepared daily. The pappardelle with Bolognese is rich and hearty, rivaling Locanda Verde. Don’t worry about your vegetarian pals, they can dine here too, despite the meat-friendly menu.

Make sure to order a few plates to share, as these tiny pasta dishes are perfect for sampling a variety. The “Ice Box” Fusilli (marinara, soft ricotta cheese, pecorino and oreganata breadcrumbs), crusty and chewy Baked Farro Macaroni and the Grass Fed Bolognese with handmade pappardelle are excellent choices to share for a carb fix without feeling guilty.

Consider also ordering one or two of their sandwiches, such as a Raguboy, a sloppy meat and cheese sandwich on brioche served with a side salad. Choose a meat including grass fed meatballs, sausages, stringless braciole (prepared in their grandmother’s tomato gravy), roast beef, heritage turkey, heritage pork (prepared in sugo d'arrosto, a rich meat gravy), bollito (slow braised), pulled beef, or pulled pork (prepared with salsa verde). Choose a cheese from fontina, provolone or mozzarella.

Plan your next dinner date or relaxing brunch indulging at Sauce in the Lower East Side!

Sauce Restaurant. 78 Rivington Street.

(Photos via PopSugar NYC)

5 Handbags Not to Carry on a First Date

2012-02-22T12:11:00.000-05:00

Women in New York City are constantly on first dates, as we’re always searching for Mr. Right through a concrete jungle of Mr.Wrongs, Mr. Right Nows and Mr. One Night Stands. You already know what shoes to avoid, what not to order and what not to drink to appear like the classy lady you are.

Most guys pay no attention to what women are wearing in the sense of up-to-the-minute trends. Remember that men will notice if you look polished and put together. Carrying a purse the size of airport checked luggage might make for a scene. So, what handbags should you avoid carrying on a first date?

(via YesStyle)

Oversized Tote. This perfect-for-the-office purse fits everything - your laptop, a mini makeup bag, umbrella, water bottle and heck, even your puppy. But, carrying around a giant Mary Poppins bag may make for a scene as you lug it through a crowded bar or knock over a glass at a fancy restaurant.

(via Valentino)

Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Purse. You know that bag that you just HAD to buy for it’s adorable design, but it barely fits your iPhone and keys? Avoid bringing that miniature purse on a date, as you’ll want to carry a bit more than a tube of lipstick and a condom. Plus, it will drive him crazy to watch you struggle as your force the zipper closed to wedge in the few items you packed for the evening.

(via Purse Page)

Bedazzled Handheld Clutch. This beautiful accessory may have looked fashionable on Carrie Bradshaw, but this glittery small hard case will drive you nuts, as you have to keep it in your hands all night. If you’ll be dancing or enjoying an outdoor date, bring a bag with a cross body chain or leather strap instead, so you’re hands will be free for more important things like holding his hand or throwing your hands up in the air on the dance floor.

(via Strand)

Canvas Tote. He may appreciate that you’re going green, but unless your date is at your neighborhood farmer’s market, a canvas tote is not date appropriate. This type of bag is too casual for a first date environment.

(via Shopbop)

Backpack. Even if you’re backpack is a leather hipster style, this type of bag is still too frumpy for a date. A handbag that rests on your shoulder or crosses your body is more feminine and dressed up for a date night out. Drop your backpack at your apartment or lock it up at your gym before you meet with your potential Prince Charming.

Starbucks vs. Local Coffee Shops in the East Village

2012-02-21T17:48:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, a Starbucks opened in the East Village, after months of protests from neighbors who prefer their local coffee shops to chains. The brand new Starbucks was even reportedly egged this weekend before their official opening.

As an East Village resident for the past 6 years, I’ve come to love my local coffee shops - especially Paradiso, B Cup, The Bean, 9^th Street Espress0 and Mocha for their neighborhood vibe, menu offerings and plain ‘ole good cups of coffee.

The Starbucks took over The Bean's old space, due to issues they had a few months back making the pricey rent. Neighbors were outraged to lose a local favorite for a chain. (Happy to report The Bean's new location is much nicer and larger on 2nd ave!)

While I am not a frequent Starbucks drinker, I think they’re convenient when you’re running to the subway and are in need of a caffeine fix. They’re also reliable when you don’t have cash and want to use a card, as most local coffee shops are cash only. Starbucks also offers low-calorie breakfast items, such as a Spinach and Feta Egg White Wrap, which is a great on-the-go option to stick to your diet.

Do you think the addition of this Starbucks, along with the IHOP on 14^th Street and a couple 7-Elevens changes the neighborhood to feel like the burbs rather than downtown NYC? xo

The Big Cheesy at Openhouse Gallery

2012-02-20T13:27:00.000-05:00

Grilled cheese is a serious business in New York City. From food trucks pressing bread and cheese on the go to a recently opened shop with a grilled cheese-only menu, New Yorker’s are declaring their favorite cheesy comfort sandwiches.

Next weekend, Openhouse Gallery is hosting The Big Cheesy, a two-day grilled cheese pop up to declare the best sandwich in the city and celebrate creative takes and tastes on this childhood classic.

Participating in the celebration are Murray’s, Big Daddy’s, Casellula, Little Muenster, Lucy’s Whey, Melt Shop and Tartinery. They’ll be making seven exquisite types of grilled cheese to pair with a 16 oz. tallboy of Sixpoint Sweet Action, Righteous Ale, Crisp Pilsner or Bengali Tiger IPA. Bringing you kid sister? She can sip on Bella Lula to wash down her creamy sandwich tastings.

Guests will get one vote to leave at their favorite table. The winning chefs will get a half-page ad in Edible Manhattan, a certificate and the crown of best sandwich in the city.

To purchase tickets and reserve a time slot, go to Time Out New York Offers & Experiences. For the story on last year’s participants and photos of creamy, gooey goodness, check out my adventure at The Big Cheesy 2011.

The Big Cheesy at Openhouse Gallery. Sat & Sun Feb 25 & 26 | 1-7pm

Pinterest is a Must-Have Social Network in NYC

2012-02-17T12:07:00.001-05:00

Pinterest has been a social image sharing site loved by fashion and food bloggers to ladies with a shopping addiction since Time published Pinterest in its "50 Best Websites of 2011".

Journalists and news publications have recently jumped on this image sharing bandwagon, along with many of your Facebook friends!

To follow along on my foodie obsessions, city girl style inspirations and apartment designing ideas, visit Sarah Shaker on Pinterest. You can follow all of my boards or just the ones that interest you. Pinterest has made image and link sharing easy and attractive.

If you're new to Pinterest, check out my recommendations:

Interested in local New York City neighborhood news? Follow along with the recently launched EveryBlock NYC Pinterest!

In love with food? Check out Sarah Spigelman (of Fritos and Foie Gras), Mckenzie Mahoney (of The MMMGuide), and Emma Moran (of Emma's Eats).

Are you a fashionista? Follow Glitter Guide, Caitlin Moran (of Style Within Reach), Courtney Cordeiro, Tricia Lewis (of Fashion Herald) and Amy Chandra (of Midtown Girl).

Addicted to news and pop culture? You'll need to follow James Stewart-Meudt (of NearSay), Today Show and NBC News.

If you don't already have Pinterest, request an invite now to organize and share the things you love!

Who are your must-follows on Pinterest? xo

5 Reasons to Beware of Girls Without Girlfriends

2012-02-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

Most women rely on their close girlfriends as a shoulder to cry on, a sounding board for life’s dramas and for gossip sessions on the dirty details of new crushes. Women who don’t have female friends, don’t have them for a reason. When you meet a girl without lady besties, it’s a red flag that she may get in your way of finding love. If you’re a single lady out in the dating scene, beware of girls without girlfriends.

(My Boys image)

She’s a Serial Flirt. She will have no qualms about flirting with the guy you’ve been crushing on for weeks at a party. Right in front of you.

She "Claims" Men. You both may have met him a only a few hours ago at the bar, but she already made it clear to you (and anyone else who will listen) that she has set her sights on him, so back off.

She Never Plays Matchmaker. This woman puts herself first. She won’t ever set you up with her cute single friend, even though she claims she isn’t in love with him and she has a boyfriend. She doesn’t share well.

She’s BFF with the Guys. She’s always hanging out with dudes. This is the girl who’s been friends with your new crush or boyfriend for years, yet she never makes an attempt to befriend you. Even though you’ve tried and tried to get to know her.

She Blindsides Men. Don’t waste the time complaining about her or her recent behavior to your guy. He will never, ever, see your point. “What, Kirsten? I don’t see why you hate her so much, she’s so nice.”

Do you think girls without girlfriends make dating harder for other single girls? xo

Bobwhite Lunch and Supper Counter in the East Village

2012-02-15T14:38:00.000-05:00

Fried chicken is not a meal for dieters. But, when done right, it’s a meal worth cheating for!

Bobwhite Counter recently opened in the East Village (all the way east) on Avenue C, serving up the kind of fried chicken Southerners in the big city dream about.

Sit on a stool by the counter in this quaint space or make sure to arrive early to snag one of the few tables with your crew to indulge in a fried chicken meal, complete with rich seasonal sides, desserts and beers on tap.

The Fried Chicken Dinner for Four is not only an outstanding deal (at only $45), but it will satisfy even your hungriest guest. This meal includes 12 pieces of fried chicken, 3 sides of your choice, 4 biscuits and a mixed green salad.

The salad is adorned with shaved candy cane beets and a mustardy vinaigrette.

The biscuits are light and fluffy. When drizzled with a bit of honey, they are the perfect salty and sweet comfort food.

Tomato pudding is a great seasonal side for winter. The supple stewed tomatoes and onions are given a mix of parmesan cheese, for a warm side dish.

The cheesy grits are creamy, but without an overwhelming flavor. Those who don't typically like grits may enjoy this for its mild taste.

Macaroni and cheese and fried chicken go hand in hand. This mac n' cheese is a basic version of the creamy staple.

The main event, fried chicken, has a crispy batter, without being too thick. The chicken is moist and flavorful. Although you'll be full after this dinner, you won't feel that post-greasy meal stomach ache, as each item is fresh and lighter than you'd expect.

Bobwhite Counter is worth the trip to Avenue C for a fresh comfort food dinner or lunch at an affordable price!

Bobwhite Counter. 94 Avenue C.

(Photos from I Are The Food Snob)

The Best Cities for Singles

2012-02-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day to all the sexy singles and perfect couples!

Whether you're already attached or looking for Mr. Right, do you really know what makes for a great singles’ city? Dating columnists - from sites including Glamour, The Frisky and popular blogs (including yours truly) - were asked to reveal their favorite hookup cities, not including where they currently live.

If you're looking for true love, chivalrous romance or just a vacation one night stand, read Dating and Sex Bloggers Pick the BestCities for Dating to find out what cities to consider for your next move or trip! xo

Valentine’s Day Gifts For Your Guy

2012-02-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

Shower Mr. Right with some love this Valentine’s Day. Choose from treats for his sweet tooth, products to help him look his sexiest or a sporty gift he’ll brag to all his buddies about.

(Jack Spade Ditcher Gloves, on sale)

Fingerless or Tech Gloves. For the gadget-obsessed man, a pair of warm fingerless or tech padded tipped gloves will allow him to easily spend hours on his iPad or to guarantee he can respond to your text on his Droid, even on his coldest walks to the subway.

(Cigars from Maraya)

Cigars. Are you dating a suave man, who wishes he was a red-robe-clad Hugh Hefner type? Order a sampling of cigars that he can enjoy at home or in a Lower East Side lounge.

Men’s Grooming. We all know a haircut in Manhattan costs about $100 for us ladies, so even our men spend about $50 per cut. Consider treating him to something a bit more cost-effective like a Zoom Groom at Rare Salon. For only $30 your guy will enjoy a salon treatment to get his last haircut cleaned up around the edges, leaving him looking sharp.

Hot Chocolate. Warm him up with Hot Chocolate on a Stick from Popbar for a sweet way to his heart. Women aren't the only ones who dream of chocolatey love.

(Shop MLB)

Personalized Sports Gear. If he grew up a Mets fan or is faithful to the Yankees, get your sports fanatic a jersey with his all-time favorite player's name. He'll be proud to brag to his buddies at the bar that his girlfriend is not only hot, but encourages (or at least deals with) his love of the game.

Don’t forget to show your BFF some love this Valentine’s Day too! xo

Popbar For a Sweet Valentine’s Day

2012-02-10T17:03:00.000-05:00

If you’re looking for a last minute Valentine’s Day gift for your love or best girlfriends, Popbar has the perfect treats for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Forgot expensive chocolates from an overpriced boutique or cheap boxes from the nearest Duane Reade. Celebrate the day with chocolately love by ordering Hot Chocolate on a Stick. Available in Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate and Vanilla White Chocolate, these hot chocolate sticks will spoil your loved ones with a warm, indulgent treat perfect to enjoy on a February winter night at home. Hot Chocolate on a Stick is available in a 3 pack, 6 Pack Gift Box and a 12 Pack Gift Box.

With the recent heat wave in the city, you may just want to sweeten up this Valentine’s Day with Popbar’s signature popSorbetto or popGelato bars. These pops are handcrafted daily in-house and are made with real fruit and all natural ingredients – no sugary juices or artificial flavors here! From strawberry sorbetto dipped in dark chocolate to mint gelato dipped in milk chocolate, there are a range of flavors for everyone’s tastes.

And don’t forget, you can dip your Popbar in a variety of “poppings” from chocolate sprinkles to almonds.

Stop by Popbar this weekend to pick up a gift box of Hot Chocolate on a Stick or surprise your lover on Tuesday with a freshly made, freshly frozen treat! Visit Popbar to check out a full menu of flavors, dippings and “poppings”.

Popbar. 5 Carmine Street.

How To Be Single (and Happy) on Valentine’s Day

2012-02-09T12:32:00.000-05:00

New Year’s Eve has come and gone with a celebration of sexy, independent singledom and friendship with your best gals. Valentine’s Day seems to follow all too quickly, with another reminder to single women that they are indeed, still single. But why not embrace your independent, successful and beautiful self with an indulgent night alone or toasting your BFFs? Be single (and happy) this Valentine’s Day!

Date Ryan Gosling. Spend the night in comfortable pjs, delighting in your favorite non-diet treats, while drooling over full access to the All Ryan Gosling, All The Time new Movies On Demand channel. Swoon over this heartthrob all night long.

Be a Lady Who Brunches. Host a Valentine’s Day themed brunch over the weekend with your single girlfriends. Everyone can bring a different savory or sweet dish in true potluck style. Sip mimosas and snack on heart shaped desserts, while you gossip during a long, tipsy brunch.

Speed Date. Ever been curious about just how awkward or exciting speed dating really is? Why not take this holiday of love as the opportunity to sign up for a night of speed dating with your partner-in-crime? You might even find Mr. Right! And if the night is a bust, you can always turn it around with cocktails post-event cracking jokes with your girlfriend about the stereotypes you “dated” that evening.

Declare You’re Anti-Valentine’s Day. Really not in the mood to run into any annoyingly perfect couples on the 14th? Then why not hate on love with other singles at an Anti-Valentine’s Day party, held at bars all around the city. Get drunk, but don’t be too much of a Debbie Downer. Who knows whom you’ll meet when you mingle and flirt in a dark lounge filled with singles?

Spend The Day With Loved Ones. Are you your little sister’s role model? Does shopping with your mom always make you feel better? Does your dad’s corny jokes send you laughing until coffee shoots out of your noise during family breakfasts? Make this Valentine’s Day one to remember by making plans with family members to share in a day of love with those who matter most.

How will you spend Valentine's Day? xo

Brooklyn Designers Showcase and Trunk Show at Brooklyn Winery

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

It's the most glamour time of the year. New York Fashion Week begins tomorrow! Attending shows, events, after-parties and after-after-parties around Manhattan can tire a girl out. Why not head to Brooklyn for a bit of a break from Midtown's hustle and bustle to discover innovative up and coming local designers?

On Saturday, February 11 from 2 to 6pm, visit Brooklyn Winery's Parlor and Mezzanine to support local Brooklyn fashion design, from clothing to accessories. Brooklyn-based fashion designers will be showcasing their incredible creativity and innovative spirit. You’ll have the opportunity to chat with Brooklyn’s finest fashion leaders about their work. You can even buy their goods on the spot. And of course, there will be drink specials. Because what’s Fashion Week without a few sips (or glasses) of bubbly?

For a fashion forward deal, Brooklyn Industries will be offering an in-store discount exclusive to attendees of the trunk show. Make a date with your best girlfriends to hop on the L train to Brooklyn Winery this Saturday for an afternoon of fashion and cocktails!

Brooklyn Winery. 213 North 8th Street.

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Your BFF

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Whether she’s a sexy singleton or a part of an annoyingly perfect couple, melt your partner-in-crime’s heart with a BFF Valentine’s Day gift!

Sealed with a Kiss Cards for your girlfriend who adores sending handwritten cards and secret love notes to her crushes.

Tocca Candle to add a beautiful scent and ambiance to her adorable bedroom.

Oscar Blandi Dry Shampoo for office-ready hair on mornings she overslept next to Mr. Right Now.

Lovelets and Sweatpeas from Big Gay Ice Cream for her sweet tooth.

Gorjana Alphabet Leather Bracelet for a grown-up friendship bracelet.

What will you surprise your besties with this Valentine's Day? xo

Cupcake 101 Class at Butter Lane

2012-02-06T11:55:00.000-05:00

Ever since Carrie Bradshaw and the ladies enjoyed cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery, these personal sized sweet treats have become the must-have pastry in NYC. If you love these fluffy baked sweets, but don’t feel like Martha Stewart in the kitchen, sign up for the easy to follow Cupcake 101 Class at Butter Lane, one of the best cupcake shops in the East Village.

Getting covered in flour or burning your hand in the oven are no longer worries for the baking illiterate as cupcakes are provided in this one-hour decorating class. Grab an apron and follow your instructor to the mixer-equipped prep stations, stocked with the high-quality ingredients that make their icings so famous.

You’ll learn the basics, like measuring and prepping your ingredients, while secretly wishing you were already engaged to register for a KitchenAid mixer. You’ll make Butter Lane's three classic icings; American Chocolate, Vanilla Bean and Cream Cheese, and mix your own version of their popular flavors, like Peanut Butter and Cinnamon.

Icing your cupcakes like the team at Butter Lane looks simple, but the competition with your classmates for the Best Icer gift certificate prize is serious. That beautiful icing swirl takes time to get perfected!

Take home a box of cupcakes to share with your roommates or to impress your office crush once class has finished. Classes are perfect for a night out with your BFF, a bridal shower or a date with a guy who isn’t afraid to get a little dirty in the kitchen. Sign up for an upcoming class as they fill up quickly!

Butter Lane. 123 E. 7th St.

Ode à La Rose Delivers What NYC Women Want for Valentine’s Day

2012-02-03T08:00:00.001-05:00

This Valentine’s Day, flowers will be delivered all over New York City to sweeten the day of wives, mothers, girlfriends and single ladies. Most men just aren't sure how to buy a woman flowers, but now ordering has been made easy and perfect. Whether you’re looking to surprise your BFF with more class and beauty than your corner bodega’s selection, or you’re a city guy who wants to impress the woman he loves, Ode à La Rose promises to deliver Parisian-style flowers this Valentine’s Day and on any special occasion.

Ode à la Rose was recently started by two young men from France, who often turned to roses throughout their youth to seal the deal after a date and melt their mothers’ hearts. Upon moving to New York, these gentlemen found it impossible to get a simple and sweet bouquet of the singularly beautiful boutique-level roses that they were accustomed to at an affordable price. Thus, Ode à la Rose was born to bring high quality delivery to New Yorkers.

Ode a la Rose sells authentically Parisian-style fresh rose bouquets using only the highest quality roses ensuring long lasting freshness. Bouquets start as low as $39.95, making their offerings one of the most reasonable prices in NYC. The selection of roses are available in a range of beautiful colors - from a classic red for a man to send to the love of his life to a bright yellow to express your special friendship with your best single girlfriend.

Want to confirm your flowers will arrive beautiful and healthy looking? Ode a la Rose takes the time to snap a photo of the bouquet right before it leaves their workshop, then will email the image to the sender along with the exact delivery time. Bouquets are hand-delivered the same day in their signature Ode à la Rose gift box, making coworkers and roommates of the woman who has your heart sick with envy.

Enjoy a special 10% discount as a Bright Lights, My City reader just in time to shower your loved one with roses for Valentine’s Day! To enjoy the 10% discount on all of their products, visit the Ode a la Rose Facebook page and “like” them to obtain the promo! xo

*Sponsored post

Celebrate 2012 Pancake Month at Clinton Street Baking Co.

2012-02-02T11:59:00.000-05:00

February is not just about snowfalls, frigid walks to the subway and anti-Valentine’s Day celebrations. This month marks the long awaited Pancake Month at the Clinton Street Baking Company.

Special pancake flavors and toppings will rotate all month long to enjoy for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Clinton Street Baking Company’s famous Blueberry Pancakes are amazing (and well worth the typical 2 hour brunch wait), but during Pancake Month you'll get the opportunity to try a variety of sweet, fluffy treats from Chocolate Chunks (with fresh raspberries and a raspberry-caramel sauce) to Crunchy Banana (with cinnamon-chili-chocolate sauce).

Check out the 2012 Pancake Month Menu so you don’t miss your favorite flavors! xo

Clinton Street Baking Company. 4 Clinton Street.